close the books on
close the book(s) on (someone or something)
To decide that a particular situation has ended; to conclude something; to stop considering something as an option. Mindy was our top candidate for the job, but we had to close the books on her when we learned that she had lied on her resume. I think it's time for me to close the books on this situation because I'm clearly never getting my money back.
See also: close, on
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
close the books on someone or something
Fig. to declare that a matter concerning someone or something is finished. (The books here originally referred to financial accounting records.) It's time to close the books on Fred. He's had enough time to apologize to us.
See also: book, close, on
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
- a/the feel of (something)
- (I) wouldn't (do something) if I were you
- a straw will show which way the wind blows
- a crack at (someone or something)
- all right
- (you) wanna make something of it?
- all for the best
- a thing of the past
- a slew of (something)
- a bird in the hand